There are many people around the world who face bullying, physical and mental abuse and inequality on a weekly if not daily basis. This can be as extreme as expulsion, torture and even execution because of how a person looks, who they love or who they are.
Gender identity and sexual orientation are an integral part of our lives which should never lead to discrimination or abuse! The sad fact is such discrimination and abuse still exists around the world.
It is therefore important we actively support our friends, neighbours and work colleagues whether it be at work, when we are out or at home so that they can be their authentic self and not worry that they’re going to be picked on or treated badly just because of who they are, how they look, who they love or identify as.
From the employer perspective:
“To attract and retain the best talent in the market companies increasingly need to demonstrate that they are an inclusive employer with a diverse workforce. To achieve this, businesses need to focus on expanding LGBT benefits and policies”
Tony Wood, UK Leader for Mercer (a national resource consultancy)
Getting the construction industry involved to help with the promotion of LGBT is a key part of recognising the importance for the wellbeing of all staff and the impacted community.
What is an LGBT Ally?
Allies play a part in creating and maintaining an inclusive workplace. This involves; actively supporting colleagues, taking appropriate action against inappropriate behaviour and using inclusive ways to challenge behaviour rather than humiliating your colleagues.
As part of a LGBT Ally launch, Transport for London (TfL) worked closely with a number of constructors and organisations to help fund and install representative artwork in Vauxhall, South London.
To celebrate the launch we arranged a cycle ride with LGBT members and sponsors which encompassed numerous cycle superhighways. The ride ended where the artwork begins and everyone got to see the work in its entirety. Having sponsors attend the launch was of great importance as visual and active support holds more importance than from the side lines.
We would like to specially thank the TfL LGBT group, Network Rail, Vauxhall One, Multiplex, McGee, Role Recruitment and Knight Harwood for contributing time, effort and funds to this project. Without their support we would not have been able to deliver such an important message and a striking piece of artwork.
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